State-appointed Receiver Robert G. Flanders, Jr. signed an order on March 12th creating the Charter Review Commission. The order tasks a nine member commission, comprised of qualified electors from Central Falls and the Central Falls City Clerk, to work closely with the diverse Central Falls electorate, proposing amendments to the city charter and making recommendations of the ballot question or questions to appear on a November, 2012 referendum. Recommendations could include changes in the organizational structure of Central Falls city government.

"As we start the transition away from the receivership, we want to make sure that the voice of all Central Falls residents is heard. The Charter Review Commission is a vital democratic step on the road to economic recovery," said Governor Chafee.

"There is life after receivership," observed Receiver Flanders. "It is important to know what kinds of changes, if any, people would like to see in their government so that the city remains on solid financial footing during the decades to come."

The Charter Review Commission will hold public hearings, including at least three targeted meetings or "focus groups" and a final open public forum, before making recommendations on the language for voter-approved amendments to the City Charter. The Receiver has engaged Leadership Rhode Island, the non-profit citizen think tank, on a volunteer basis to serve the Charter Review Commission as facilitators, educators and assistant.

"We are excited to bring the breadth and depth of our 2012 class and our alumni to work together for the future of this city," says Mike Ritz, Executive Director of Leadership Rhode Island, "We look forward to facilitating a transparent process that is reflective of and invested in the community of Central Falls."

Applications are available for pick up at the Office of the Receiver, Central Falls City Hall, 2nd Floor, 580 Broad Street, Central Falls, by calling 401-727-7474, or by sending a request to receiver@centralfallsri.us. The deadline for completed applications is 1:00 pm Friday, March 23rd.